Just for fun

My List of Christmas Wants

(they are rather essential things which will be useful to my everyday life.. Highly doubtful I'll get many of them..)

1. A DSLR (to capture the beautiful moments in life)
2. A watch (prefer digital as always)
3. A backpack (must be pretty enough for my standards)
4. A new hard drive (to store my gazillions of photos)
5. More shelves / storage space for my junk at home.
6. More pretty work clothes

My List of Christmas Places to Go

(hopefully all will be attained.. depends how much stamina we have, and also depends on the weather..)

1. Christmas Lights @ Capilano Suspension Bridge
2. Christmas Lights @ Van Dusen Botanical Garden
3. Body Worlds @ Science World
4. Queen Elizabeth Park
5. Movie outing + Greek food
6. Boxing Day shopping @ the mall

My List of Christmas Desires

(the things that money cannot buy..)

1. A new job where I will enjoy myself much more, and less brain-degenerating
2. To keep my room in a more presentable state (nearly impossible to achieve)
3. Eat lots of good food and not get fat (HA! first part will be achieved but the latter is hard.. so hard..)
4. Find new TV shows to watch (my mum already thinks I am a "TV Queen" but I don't seem that addicted yet...)
5. Learn Italian again (I am so sad, I have forgotten almost everything I learnt one year ago.. which is really sad..)
6. Spend time more effectively on more things and people..

Just a boring post, my blog is getting pretty dead.. I keep starting new posts but never end up finishing them~~ Sigh..

Advice on Cooking

My style of cooking; it's a very strange combination of skill and laziness.

I call it "skill" because I have watched tons of cooking shows during my 2 years of living at Gage in UBC, where I was blessed with a TV in our living room. Sad to say, now I don't have a TV and my only complaint is I cannot watch the Food Network anymore~~ Even though I'm working during the hours that my favourite shows are on, I would still like to have a TV.

And I have picked up a lot of tips from watching all these cooking hosts. Like what are the "standard" seasonings for different kinds of cuisines, important theories, what to put together and what NOT to put together, so much more! I could write an entire book on what I've learnt just by watching...

And laziness? That's pretty self-explanatory. Or you could also define it as I-am-so-cheap-I-refuse-to-get-the-expensive-ingredients-like-the-pros-do. I pretty much use whatever I have on hand, and whatever I have on hand is what I "happen" to pick up at the supermarket for that week. There are rare times where I would specially buy specific items for whatever I am making though, depends entirely on my mood.

With this combination of knowledge and non-specificity, I sometimes come up with random recipes. No actually, make that ALL THE TIME. Especially my "Chinese" cooking are the simplest things I usually cook. My usual is a tiny portion of meat, either ground or in small pieces, with a range of 2-5 types of vegetables cut up. First I fry the meat, and then toss in the vegetables. The meat may or may not be pre-marinated, but I have learned to "season every layer of the dish", but I usually put so little seasoning it doesn't really taste very strong anyway. I think this is a healthy diet, especially when served with rice. My meat-to-vegetables ratio is usually 1:3, and I'm proud of that.

When I encounter certain things I feel like baking or trying out, I hunt for the recipe on ever-trusty Google, and then I modify it to whatever I have in my fridge. Except you can't really mess with the chemistry of baking, so I don't alter proportions and try to follow baking measurements to a T. I'm a lot better now, at least my landlord has measuring cups and spoons which I can use, which I never really used in the past. The actual baking time and temperature and oven will definitely not make my baking turn out perfectly, but I have learned to live with such imperfection.

Today, I made hummus. The traditional recipe calls for chickpeas, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, sesame paste and some spices. I have only the first 2 on the list. Well, I guess I can make do, since chickpeas is the key ingredient in this. I was hesitant to chop up garlic at first (because I was oh-so-lazy) but finally gave in because according to my landlady, "hummus is not hummus without garlic!"

So I blended the chickpeas and garlic together with only a little of the liquid from the can (with my lovely $7 mini food processor), and then added sesame seeds (to replace the sesame paste), and --- oh, that's about it. I added salt and black pepper, and I also decided to be brave and add curry powder. I did not add olive oil because seriously, I don't see the need for it (and I didn't want to scrub a greasy food processor). The curry powder turned out to be a great choice, and after I spooned everything into a container, I swirled in a couple drops of sesame oil to enhance the aroma.

And boy, did that taste good! So, I conclude that you really don't need all the classic ingredients to make a good hummus. And really, that applies to pretty much everything that is not baking.. I suppose if you are really professional then you can fiddle around, but I'm not there yet..

My advice when it comes to cooking: Be adventurous, be flexible, and most importantly, be LAZY! :) Happy cooking everyone!

Another weird conversation

(Person A) and I were talking about this guy who might be interested in her. Major 180° change in topic as we switched to talking about (Person B).

(Person A): I introduced him to (Person B) -- she's desperate for a boyfriend...
Me: How desperate is she?
(Person A): She asks me and *other friend* to introduce guys to her...
Me: Okay, I should introduce *my boyfriend*'s friends to her then..
*Person A*: Oh really? Please do!! I have introduced all my good friends to her...

I show *my boyfriend* the above conversation.

*bf*: LOLOL! My friends are study dudes, they won't be compatible.. And they are shy too, not "on the bed" type...
Me: LOL! My sentiments exactly!

ROFL. I don't know whether to laugh or feel sorry for (Person B). FYI I have top-secret access to such information. :D

Words of Wisdom

(meaningful phrases from country songs)

Life is not about the breaths you take, but the moments that take your breath away...

I don't want a man I can live with; I want a man that I can't live without...

I believe in angels, 'cause my angels believe in me.

I wanna put you in a melody, so you'll be stuck in my head all day. If I could press play, rewind a couple million times; so let me put you in a song...

You make me smile like the sun, forget how to breathe.. Just the thought of you can drive me wild, oh you make me smile...

I'm gonna change your mind, I'm gonna make you love me...

Day 14

Day 14 - A picture of you and your family

Hello, my parents are too cool to take pictures with me. My mum perhaps might, but not my dad. When was the last time that all 3 of us were in the same country huh?

I wish to start my own family soon so that I can have one to call my own... But that doesn't mean I'm ready to have kids! It's two different stories altogether :D

LOL random twist again.

Day 13

Day 13 - A letter to someone who has hurt you recently

Dear [name removed],

I try not to take things too personal but ignoring just me is ridiculous. I know you see me as a threat but there's nothing I can do about it. I try to be polite but sometimes I fail. And I can't help it if you are PMS-ing when I am trying to ask you questions. I hope we can cooperate in the future when there is a need to.

Peace.

Day 12

Day 12 - How you found out about WordPress and why you made one

(ahem, I got stuck here on November 6 and now it is November 16... LOOOONG hiatus indeed huh!)

Since I'm on Blogger, let me talk about that.. I heard about blogging in 2004, and then I was in some emotional turmoil so I wanted a place to release all my tensions and troubles..

And then I came to Canada to study and began a brand new blog to keep my friends updated about my exciting life abroad! And it went on for a couple years, with new blogs for a new year, and in the recent 2 years or so, I decided my life was too boring for the public so I made this one and strove to make things more interesting, more typical-interesting/quirky posts and less about my mundane life..

I hope I'm doing a good job keeping y'all entertained, but I must admit, my blogging frequency is becoming more and more irregular... MUST. WORK. ON. THAT!

Day 11

Day 11 - Another picture of you and your friends

Okay, let's talk about my university friends.. Got to know them in first year when we were in the same dorm.. One introduction led to another and it was quite a group.. We had dinners together every now and then but things just got busier and I lived further away from them and I drifted away from them..

A picture of all of us, together for possibly the last time, at graduation:



3 of them have returned to Hong Kong to work, another one has gone to UK for Masters.. Wonder when I'll see them again.. But like I said, things have drifted for me.. I don't feel the same as I did in first/second year anymore..

Day 10

Day 10 - Songs you listen to when you are Happy, Sad, Bored, Hyped, Mad

I don't listen to much songs anymore.. I listen more on different phases.. Like for a month or two I'll be listening to a certain genre of music... Sky.fm is great for that, internet radio with different genres..

I usually listen to country music radio, but I stopped listening for a month now.. Had been listening to operatic music, it's quite soothing sometimes.. And solo piano of course, when I need something to calm my nerves when people piss me off at work..

Other than that I go through phases when I like listening to Mandarin pop, Cantonese pop, English love songs.. Yea, not really based on my moods..

One exception: Folding laundry always calls for country music.. HAHA! It's a newfound tradition~~ Discovered it in spring.. HAHAHA!

Okay, I didn't answer the question but hey, isn't that what I haven't been doing for the past few entries? :D

Day 9

Day 09 - Something you’re proud of in the past few days

(the date says 15 October, but it's actually 6 November now.. Procrastination has gotten the better worse of me~~)

I am proud that my room is such a disaster that my mother halfway across the globe cannot imagine how messy it is right now, and she cannot do anything about it HA! And my boyfriend is probably speechless even though he hasn't seen my room for a month.. Oh wait I don't think this is something to be proud of.. Oops..

I am proud that I have been doing things at work without using my notes for a few weeks, but I still get nervous sometimes and refer to them if I need to.

I am proud that I finally acquired a microwave so I can be lazy and cook one meal a week and then eat it the entire week...

Sigh, not many milestone achievements in my boring life, isn't it?

Day 8

Day 08 - Short term goals for this month and why

This month is nearing an end. I don't really have much goals anymore, now that I'm not in school. If I'm in school I'll say I want to do well in my midterms and stuff.. But sadly no.. I should probably get to long term goals in terms of career and stuff, but it's too depressing especially when I don't know what I want.. It's that difficult transition period between school and working life..

Well, I aim to write more, just because I want to and feel like penning down my thoughts these days. But this is hard to do, inspiration comes and goes. Which goes to say that these posts you see are actually not dated when they were written ;) I write a whole bunch when I am inspired and nothing for a few weeks..

More goals? Get a proper job? Easy to say, hard to do. I don't want to think anymore about goals for now. Kthxbye :D

Day 7

Day 07 - A picture of someone/something that has the biggest impact on you





University of British Columbia
Vancouver, Canada

My dad always says the best time of your life is when you're in university. I never knew what he meant. I didn't really know what university even meant, until very much later on.

Having spent 4 years at this beautiful campus, the only regret is that I didn't fully cherish my time there until after I have graduated. Of course, we all take things for granted and maybe I have done so too.

I don't really miss the crazy studying days and nights. The part of university I enjoyed most was the whole living experience. I have made some good friends, even though most of the people I interact with are acquaintances in classes whom I might never meet again. I have had the luxury and luck of living on campus residences for all the 4 years, and not having to commute.

I particularly enjoyed the last 2 years, where I got to cook for myself, and that has opened up my hidden passion for cooking. I may not be the best chef yet, but it has made me discover how much I love cooking. This has changed my life quite significantly.

Of course, not to forget, it was during the last year at this wonderful place when I've met the most wonderful guy, who treats me better than anyone can ask for. We have shared many beautiful memories in UBC as well, making it an especially sentimental place for both of us.

This has been the best 4 years of my life, and for once, I agree with my dad. I'm very glad that I have chosen this path and I am who I am today, because of the time spent at UBC.

I am a tree murderer, not by choice.

It was a strange feeling to step into the office once again.

I had received a call asking me to return to work for the week, since the employee was unable to resume her position as she thought she could. I had half-expected this; it would not have been 100% confirmed that she would return this week, due to her illness.. She claimed to be feeling better and intended to come back, but apparently not.

I felt a little strange, as people greeted me with a surprised-but-not-really-surprised tone of voice, some even saying "Welcome back!" But I knew that meant nothing more than just a passing remark.

As I returned to "my" desk, the "Welcome Back [name of employee]" sign had been removed. They had put it up last Friday before I had even left the office, when I was away from the desk to do some filing. I returned to my desk seeing that and just felt they were a little insensitive. So now it bites them back.

I settled into my chair, still feeling uneasy. Part of me wanted to quit there and then, just because I didn't feel like I belong. The other part of me told myself to stay, because leaving would only render me jobless. I wasn't sure of what I should do first.

A/R lady walks in and drops off some invoices without even saying a 'good morning' or any form of greeting. I then realize that in her eyes, if not most people in the office, only see me as a robot who is processing the work for them.

I understand that they are anticipating their permanent worker to come back, but hey people, treasure the present and cherish what you have now! I can't help but keep thinking how would they survive without me. Sure, they can go to the agency and find another replacement, but they would have to train him/her all over again. It makes me almost smug to think that I am rather essential, just that they won't admit it.

Never mind that. Aside from being a little miffed by A/R lady, I got to work soon enough, and I realize it was back to the world of paper, and PAPER CUTS! I promptly went back to killing trees and there is karma! I get paper cuts in return!

But there is nothing I can do about it. My boyfriend says, "You know what, you should find a 'greener' workplace next time, if you are so unhappy about wasting paper.." I totally agree! Now I know, if they ever ask me in an interview, what is important to me in a job.. I'll know what to say! I really want to play a part in saving this fragile environment of ours, that is only getting worse day by day as corporate offices terrorize the forests without blinking an eye.

I truly felt like a tree murderer, and I could almost hear the agonizing screams of little trees, coming from the humming of the printer which was spitting out sheets after sheets of clean, white paper. It didn't help that I was printing monthly reports, which require just about, hmm, 2000-3000 sheets of paper?

I know because 1 ream of paper has 500 sheets, and at the end of that week I had used about one a day (read: 5). This was precisely what I was trying to avoid; that's what I was thinking when they told me last week was my last day.. I don't have to do monthly reports and kill trees! I had done monthly reports last month and I was mortified at the amount of paper I was going through, so in my mind I was going, "Never again!"

Aside from that, things felt somewhat normal by lunch time, and I was glad. That feeling of uncertainty and abnormality left, and my mind was back at ease.

Still, I don't want to continue murdering more logs. I really want to find a more environmentally-friendly workplace in future. I still want to change the world, one piece of paper at a time! :)

Day 6

Day 06 - Favorite super hero and why

Ehh? I don't like superheroes and anything near sci-fi.. So essentially all those Superman, Batman, whatever-man/woman you call it are out of the question.. Assuming if this is asking about those..

I would think that there is someone whom I look up to and admire enough to consider him/her my "super hero", but I really can't think of anyone right now.. In real life or otherwise.. I feel that I'm rather cynical that way...

TV character perhaps? I can't think of anything right now. My brain is blank, as it usually is because I don't use much brain cells at work.. At this rate my brain will be degenerating at an exponential rate.. I need to exercise my brain more.. I know.. It sounds sad, doesn't it? :(

Day 5

Day 05- A picture of somewhere you’ve been to



This was taken at the Canadian Rockies, at Lake Louise, Alberta, Canada. The mountains are truly amazing, you gotta go if you have a chance.. We went there in late May, when the lake was still frozen.. If we had gone a month or two later, the lake would have been an emerald-green colour.. But nevertheless it was a sight to behold..

Here's a bonus picture, even prettier!! :)



Can I go to the Rockies again?? There's still so many places to explore!!!!

Day 4

Day 04 - A habit that you wish you didn’t have

This one's an easy one~~ I have many many bad habits.. One of the worst is me picking and peeling at the skin on my fingers.. Whenever I see a piece of skin, I will keep picking at it until it gets out of my sight.. Most of the time it involves bloodshed, and it ain't pretty..

I've also had the bad experience of having horrendous cracked heels during winter, since it's so dry, and I can't help but peel away the unsightly skin, which of course, leads to me peeling off even skin that's not dead, and it was so bad until I was limping a bit as I walked.. I'm not kidding..

I also remember when I was around Primary 3 and I peeled until all of my fingers bled and I had to go to school with 10 bandaged fingers eeeek! I know this is pretty gross to hear but that's the worst habit that one can have..

I'm trying my best now and with the boyfriend constantly nagging, "Stop torturing yourself!".. I now have somewhat decent fingers.. I still occasionally peel but I try to use a nail clipper now.. X(

Day 3

Day 03- A picture of you and your friends

At this point in time, I don't have very many friends.. I know, it's the sad truth..

Many people are merely acquaintances.. People who step in and out of your life... How many people actually care about what's happening in your life? I know I sound very cynical, but it is the harsh truth..

I think I get very close to people when I live with them, yet I choose not to live with my friends.. There's a very fine line between that.. Let's talk about that instead..

My logic is that if you live with friends, there are chances that you will nitpick at their flaws and then things turn into a terrible catfight as you have less tolerance for people whom you harbour more expectations on..

On the other hand, if you live with people who you don't know, you get to know them on that scale and then since you are facing the same situation (ie. living with someone who is totally a stranger at first), there are more similarities and you know you have to live with the bad habits of others anyway.. So it is more than likely that you get along well with those people..

For me, my housemates and I seem to have a good relationship, we have girl talks, we tell each other problems, we whine at each other for not doing chores, etc.. Now that I don't live with them anymore, I miss our daily banter and chattering.. Here's a picture for you, if you insist on a picture..



3 in a bath tub! :D In a hotel, no less!

Day 2

Day 02- The meaning behind your WordPress name

chicagosunrise?

I like sunsets, but 'sunset' seemed too negative, so 'sunrise' was a better option.. It also gives my blog a bit more hope, perhaps?

And I like the band Chicago.. They have some pretty great songs.. I just thought it would make a very interesting combination, since blog names were supposed to be weird, unthinkable combination of usually 2 words.. And ta-da!!!

Day 1

Day 01- A recent picture of you and 15 interesting facts about yourself

Hmm, recent pic? I don't have any flattering pics these days.. I look too tired from work.. I need to go out more!!!


There, taken a couple weeks ago, with a humongous bowl of ramen and an equally gigantic mountain of cheese. :D

Or if you prefer, a nicer picture of me, at graduation, about 4 months ago here.. Hey, at the rate that time is passing, 4 months IS pretty recent isn't it?

15 facts about myself? I could go on for a long time, just thinking how much I should reveal about myself...

1) I love sushi... Much more than sashimi.. People go to buffets for the value of the sashimi but I go right for the rolls.. I don't care.. Oh might as well say it here.. I love rice!! I am a rice bucket! :D

2) I love chocolate!!! I used to eat chocolate every day for a couple of months.. Used to have a never-ending supply of chocolate in my room, but one day I just stopped. The chocolate is still in my room though, and the chocolate mood is coming back, just when Halloween is around the corner :)

3) I am a very neat and messy person. Oxymoron? I prefer to call it an organized mess. I can put things EVERYWHERE in no orderly fashion and most of the time I can remember distinctly where I put them.

4) My first childhood ambition was to become an astronaut. With my poor grasp of physics and chemistry, this dream vanished into the black hole (pun intended!)...

5) I like to write. If I have the motivation / inspiration / time / ability, I would like to write for a living. I just wonder what happens when I get writer's block.. Do I go hungry for a month?

6) I am not a Singapore citizen, though I've lived in Singapore for 12 years. I am not (yet) a Canadian citizen, though I've lived in Vancouver for 6 years. I'm a Hong Kong citizen, but I feel no affinity for the bustling city which everyone flocks to for shopping.

7) I am a die-hard romantic. I like anything sappy, corny, cheesy, as long as it is romantic.. Songs, movies, books, real life.. YEA!

8) I love cooking. Even though these days I don't really have the time to think much about cooking or actually cook proper stuff, I still like it. I don't know if my passion for cooking is fading or not, but we shall see. And get this, I've never cooked in my entire life before August 2008.

9) I don't like anything that 99% of the world goes crazy over.. As in, the more popular something is, I tend to stay further away from it.. Odd phenomenon I noticed about myself.. Keep me away from Lady Gaga, Twilight, iPhone, Justin Bieber, House, Jay Chou... Oh the list goes on..

10) People always ask me, "Are you homesick?" when I first came to Vancouver.. And in my heart it was always a resounding NO. I feel sad that I'm not very much of a family-oriented person, as much as I want to be one.. I shall strive to become one, when I have a family of my own..

11) I am not a materialistic person. I do not hanker after LV bags, Prada purses, or anything expensive. I like things nice and simple, and can be quite frugal when I have to be, at the same time knowing when to splurge a little for myself.

12) I love to take photos.. Of scenery, nature, the sky.. Especially sunsets.. I would love to own a DSLR one day and learn how to take great nature shots..

13) I am a (wo)man of my words. When I say something, I will ensure that my actions follow.. I am not one of those who just say yes for the sake of pleasing people and do something completely opposite instead. I am a loyal, faithful person who wishes that the world was less superficial.

14) I love cheese! Anything with cheese is AMAZING!!!! Nachos, pizza, pasta.. I just wish it was more figure-friendly..

15) Lastly, I like anything miniature, smaller than usual! I used to have a toy set of miniature figures and food and I still keep it to this very day! I wanna own more of tiny cute figurines of food, trinkets, cartoon characters, whatever!

Well, are you surprised at any of these facts? :D

30 Day Challenge!

Got this from Putri's blog, shall be interesting!!! :)

30 Day Challenge:

Day 01- A recent picture of you and 15 interesting facts about yourself
Day 02- The meaning behind your WordPress name
Day 03- A picture of you and your friends
Day 04- A habit that you wish you didn’t have
Day 05- A picture of somewhere you’ve been to
Day 06- Favorite super hero and why
Day 07- A picture of someone/something that has the biggest impact on you
Day 08- Short term goals for this month and why
Day 09- Something you’re proud of in the past few days
Day 10- Songs you listen to when you are Happy, Sad, Bored, Hyped, Mad
Day 11- Another picture of you and your friends
Day 12- How you found out about WordPress and why you made one
Day 13- A letter to someone who has hurt you recently
Day 14- A picture of you and your family
Day 15- Put your iPod on shuffle: First 10 songs that play
Day 16- Another picture of yourself
Day 17- Someone you would want to switch lives with for one day and why
Day 18- Plans/dreams/goals you have
Day 19- Nicknames you have; why do you have them
Day 20- Someone you see yourself marrying/being with in the future
Day 21- A picture of something that makes you happy
Day 22- What makes you different from everyone else
Day 23- Something you crave for a lot
Day 24- A letter to your parents
Day 25- What I would find in your bag
Day 26- What you think about your friends
Day 27- Why are you doing this 30 day challenge
Day 28- A picture of you last year and now, how have you changed since then?
Day 29- In this past month, what have you learned
Day 30- Who are you?

One of our weird conversations

*after sharing a picture of our first meal cooked together*

N: Good memories~~
J: Yea, it makes me scared sometimes.. @_@
N: Why? Scared in what way?
J: I'm scared that if one event didn't happen, then nothing would be the way they are now. I wish there won't be a time machine in the future, so nobody messes with it.
N: That's okay, we control our future. Let's just hope nobody invents a time machine in our lifetime.
J: It's still theoretically impossible..
N: Good, they should just continue inventing stupid things, like the iPad.

ROFL

我是个好公民!

I would like to proudly proclaim that I have been a good, moral citizen (albeit not Canadian) today!!

I was walking to take the Skytrain home as usual, and when I got to the platform, I have to walk to the front end where it's easier for me to get on the train, as opposed to the rear end where people are usually congested because of the location of the stairs.

So when I was heading towards where I had to go, I passed by 2 old ladies whose backs were facing me as I walked. One of them was carrying a little backpack-handbag thingy, which happened to be unzipped and a very large wallet with many cards was staring out into my face.

I happily walked past them without much thought, but in a split second my mind wandered back to the wallet that was screaming to pickpockets "Pick me! Pick me!" No, I cannot let that happen to an old lady.

I retraced my steps (I had only taken about 5 steps when this occurred to me), and politely interrupted the lady, who was talking to her friend. "Excuse me, I couldn't help but notice that your purse was unzipped and your wallet is in danger; someone could easily have taken it."

I was a little nervous because I don't know if I will be told off for my nosiness, but thank goodness Vancouverites are a kind and friendly bunch and she said gratefully, "Oh thank you!" Her friend looked genuinely surprised and also added a "Thank you!", smiling at me.

I uttered a "You're welcome!" cheerily and went on walking to the other end of the platform.

It sure feels good to have your kind intentions well-appreciated, not like in certain places (which will be elaborated in another post) where I get verbally bashed for just trying to be an efficient, thoughtful person.

This made my day! :)

I'm Just Trying To Save The World!

If that's not good enough for you, how about this: Killing trees and wasting paper is a sin.

At work, there are definitely inevitable encounters with throwing away a piece of paper that has only been used on one side. People try to comfort themselves by saying, "It's okay! It's going into the recycling!"

What a total fallacy. You cannot bring a forest back to life, needless to say, not even a tree, just by tossing that once-used piece of paper into the blue bin.

I don't have actual numbers, but from my knowledge, it does take a lot of trees to make a small amount of paper.. So why kill the tree first, when you can choose to THINK whether it is absolutely necessary before using the paper itself?

I have tried to effciently reduce the amount of paper I use at the workplace. We have to enter orders from a source and then print this order out and it goes into a file. When invoices come later on, we match them to the previously entered orders and finalize them by posting. Prior to the posting step, we have to ensure that the dates on both documents match. Frustratingly enough, many a time they DO NOT match!

So we have to go back into the system, change the date and REPRINT the order to match the invoice. Most of the time, the dates only differ by a day. Just because of this one-day difference, we have to waste a whole piece of paper!!! We cannot control how the dates appear, but I believe we can get rid of the step of printing before the invoices arrive.

So, the brilliant me thought of a more efficient way to go about this procedure, which is both time-saving and reduces the use of paper altogether.

My way is to enter the orders from the source as per normal, and then put the sources in a pile neatly (sadly the sources are also on paper, there's no way around that - yet..). I totally skip the step of printing this order. Therefore, when the invoices come, I simply reach for my pile of sources and pull the relevant one out, and if the dates do not match, I go back on to the computer to change the date, and then print the final copy of the order and then post it!

You may wonder and have questions to my way of doing this. I will explain myself hereafter.

1) How do you know that the sources have been entered into the system?

Firstly, each source has a unique number to it. It can range from 5 to 10 digits, and when it is entered into the system, it cannot be entered again. If you try to enter the same source twice, an error message will come up and hence it will not be double-entered.

2) Isn't it more time-consuming to look for the source that has been entered?

Each order comes with a number that runs in sequence and it is only 4 digits. After entering the order, I write this 4 digit number onto the source and stack the sources according to this sequence, so it is very easy to look for it when you receive the invoice and search for the order number in the system, which will automatically have the 4 digit number with it.

That's about all there is to it. The only issue that I have not thought about is when we have to pull out all the orders to post them at the end of the month. But all I do is go through the pile of already entered sources and take out whatever dates I need.

The lady who is in charge of this is forbidding me to do things this way, only because she is concerned about whether the sources have been entered. I have just explained my efficient way of doing this! She gives the excuse that it will only work while I'm here. So why don't you try this method too? Oh never mind, older people cannot accept changes. Let's not get into the discussion of rebellious young trying to change the ancient ways of the world now, shall we?

Did I also mention that this saves a lot of time by not having to:

1) Staple the first order to the source, remove the staple when I reprint the order, re-staple the new order with the source - 30 seconds.

2) Pull out the big binders sorted by supplier, file the order+source according to location within the binder, return the binder to the shelf - 50 seconds. (Longer if the binder is really thick and it takes forever to flip through them - 90% of the time..)

Multiply this by about 50-80 per week and voilà! How much time can we be saving over here? Maybe that's the reason why I have been able to have free time to do other odds and ends that dates back to years ago, like sorting invoices and whatnot.

You get my point. Does this make you want to think about the way you use paper? Are you really going to recycle that single-used piece of paper which is good for other uses?

My advice: Think before you recycle. Think before you use! Ask yourself, "Is it really necessary?"

Today I'm gonna try to change the world, one piece of paper at a time.

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

Quando Sento Che Mi Ami

Le stelle chiamano. La notte va.
Il giorno che vivrò non morirà.
Il mondo cambierò solo per te.
È impossibile, ma non per me.

Sole o pioggia, io con te starò.
Sogni buttati via, io li rivedrò.
Guardando te, vedrò l immensità
Nel mio mondo sei la verità.

Poi ti farò vedere come ero io,
La solitudine, il passato mio.
Ma le mie lacrime lontane già.
Tutto è più facile se tu sei qua.

Amore! Quando mi ami,
Mi sento forte.
Ti salverò ovunque tu sarai.
Ti porto tutto cio che chiedi.
Niente sembra troppo.
Io splendo anche nell oscurità,
Quando sento che mi ami.

Senza di te, il mondo non puo più girare.
Solo il tuo amore mi puo salvare

Amore! Quando mi ami,
Mi sento forte.
Ti seguirò ovunque tu sarai.
Ti porto tutto cio che chiedi.
Niente sembra troppo.
Io splendo anche nell oscurità,
Quando sento che mi ami.
Quando sento che mi ami

A Little Country Story

Country music has taken over my ears ever since I discovered it around October last year.. I still remember how I started listening to country..

I was waiting for the shuttle bus after work at Vanier, and there was radio on my phone so just tuned the radio until I chanced upon a song with a good beat, and surprisingly interesting and meaningful (AND romantic at the same time!) lyrics! So I listened for about half an hour and in the following days, I started listening to the station on the internet..

It was... GOOD. There's just no other way to describe it! The lyrics just sounded so realistic and down-to-earth.. It was catchy and fun to bob along to.. Somehow it just replaced whatever I was used to listening before... Solo piano, smooth jazz, English oldies, Chinese pop...

And then... I start listening to too much country music at work for the past 1 week.. And suddenly, I have rekindled my liking for listening to solo piano music... After so many months of neglecting it.. Well, that's another story for another day... But it is very good sleepytime music.. It soothes the mind and releases tension from a long work day..

I guess it's all about balance.. Too much of anything can kill anyone..

But if you haven't heard country music before, try it! Most people make a weird face when they hear the word "country".. I don't know why people are so negative about it.. I guess I tend to like things which are not too popular.. I like this trait about myself :P

Anyway, favourite country singers: George Canyon, Brad Paisley (albeit getting too popular), Emerson Drive, Josh Turner, Keith Urban... The list goes on!

Favourite country song of all time:
(aka the song that I've been most addicted to until this moment)

I BELIEVE IN ANGELS - George Canyon

It's such an inspiring and touching song...

That's all I have to say for now.. Anyone has any opinions about this? Feel free to tell me!

OMG, JOB!

After more than a month of job hunt, I have a JOB! It is not much, it is just data entry and sorts, and it's currently only a temporary thing for about a month, but nevertheless I am grateful for something to have come my way! Thank you for all those who have supported me and asked me not to give up~~ I will continue to need your support, so I hope for the best!!

PS. It is in Yaletown.. LOL funny to think that I've NEVER stepped foot in Yaletown during all my years in Vancouver.. Hmmm..

Another reason...

why I think LIFE should be simple...

After listening to this song:

王力宏 - 柴米油盐酱醋茶

小时候你想要什么
我要一台大大蓝色的飞机
带我环游世界
到地球每一个角落
在蓝天白云中穿梭

而长大以后我想要什么
我要一台小小红色答录机
和你一起录下
喂 我们现在不在家
蓝色变成红色因为你

柴米油盐酱醋茶
一点一滴都是幸福在发芽
月儿弯弯爱的傻
有了你什么都不差

小时候你想要什么
我要一台大大蓝色的飞机
带我环游世界
到地球每一个角落
在蓝天白云中穿梭

哦长大以后我想要什么
我要一台小小红色答录机
和你一起录下
喂我们现在不在家
蓝色变成红色因为你

柴米油盐酱醋茶
一点一滴都是幸福在发芽
月儿弯弯爱的傻
有了你什么都不差

给你快乐无论白天黑夜
握紧双手就算刮风下雨
我就是要你
要你待在我身边
保护你直到永远

柴米油盐酱醋茶
一点一滴都是幸福在发芽
月儿弯弯爱的傻
有了你什么都不差

月儿弯弯爱的傻
没有一个理由
活的那么复杂
有了你什么都不差

For those who do not understand Chinese, the song is basically talking about how a guy has a childhood dream of flying around the world in a BLUE aeroplane, but later on his only wish would be to own a RED answering machine, so that he can record a message on it, with the girl he loves.. And "蓝色变成红色因为你" directly translates to: Blue became red because of YOU...

Such a simple song, yet it invokes so much feelings...

The music video also provides a pleasant imagery of a couple cooking together, from when they are a young couple till they are old with greying hair. This shows that

One may argue that it is stupid for a man to give up his dreams and aspirations just to be with the one he loves, but on the other side of things, it also sends us a message that we don't necessarily have to dream big, think hefty thoughts and achieve colossal feats in order to be happy in life.

Just by cooking with your loved one is enough, and the song lyrics also mention about the 7 basic necessities of life: Firewood, rice, oil, salt, soy sauce, vinegar, and tea. It tells us that all we need are these fundamentals, and all these simplistic things will bring us happiness, little bit by little bit.

There is no way to happiness. Happiness is the way.

- Wayne Dyer

Summer ♥

Summer has been a great deal of fun..

Exploring all the places we've never been to, visiting tourist attractions in Vancouver, trip to the Canadian Rockies...

Cooking simple meals at home, eating out, buying groceries...

Countless strolls under the sunny blue skies on the beach, watching people enjoy the gorgeous weather in the warmth of the sun...

Hard work at househunting, finally found myself a place to move to at the end of this month.. Gigantic room, I like!

Today's the official start of summer season, HAPPY SUMMER everyone!!

I've OFFICIALLY GRADUATED FROM UBC!!! :)

George Canyon - I Believe In Angels

Stubbed my toe on a GI Joe
Trippin' over toys this morning
My little blue eyed girl with the yellow curls said
I love you daddy, without a warning

Yeah, and they both think I'm Superman
'Cause I can crush a Doctor Pepper can, easy
But I can be a teddy bear when they get scared
They both need me

To watch them sleep how could anyone say
That's there no heaven, man there's no way

'Cause I believe in angels
With every breath that I breathe
I believe in angels,
'Cause my angels believe in me

They stick out their arms like tiny wings
And pretend like they are flyin'
And when I hear their sweet voices sing
There's no denying
When they laugh, even when they cry,
I see heaven in their eyes

'Cause I believe in angels
With every breath I breathe
I believe in angels,
'Cause my angels believe in me

I pray someday they will see
That they can be anything they want to be
They can look at me

I believe in angels,
'Cause my angels believe in me

"I believe in you too, my angel." - ♥

Depressed

UBC reflection to be writtened a little later, when I *cross my fingers* have a little more confidence, after what turned out to be a brutal battle I faced yesterday at my last exam.

Till then.

~♥~

i see a big cloud 
outside my window

let me capture it
keep it in a bottle

together,
we will ride this cloud
and see many rainbows

as colourful as our lives
as happy as the two of us

P.L.A.N.S

Things to do after EXAMS:

Go out with BOYFRIEND!!!
Pack and move out of GAGE!!! :'(
Watch DRAMA!!!
Watch CINEMA PARADISO (Italian movie)!!!
Bake BROWNIES!!!
Read NOVELS!!!
Read COOKING blogs!!!
Watch FOOD Network!!!
Shopping for CLOTHES!!!
Go to the BEACH!!!
Cook YUMMY food!!!

Places to GO:
Steveston, Richmond :)
Metrotown :)
Beaches :)
Parks :)
Stanley Park :)
West Vancouver :)
Lynn Valley :)

Things to be DONE:
Apply post-grad WORK permit :|
Find a JOB :|
HOUSEhunting :|

Exam Update!

I cannot believe I haven't written in here for like 3 weeks!! It's been too long man~~ What have I been busy with eh?? End of school, and then exams.. Seriously, what HAVE I been up to??? Alrighty, some updates..

Exams were scheduled to be 19, 20, 20, 28 April, but I talked to Italian prof and managed to get myself to write the exam on 23 April so it won't clash on same day as transport econ (which was quite a disaster on its own already, yesterday..).

So, exam season, the very last of my university undergraduate career.. I feel like I should be a little more nervous, panicking a little more.. I'm taking it slightly easy now.. MUST. NOT. BE. COMPLACENT!!!

Speaking of last, I cannot believe my 4 years of undergraduate have passed by just like that! The last time I blinked, I was still a teenager!! I promise a proper reflection after exams, a look at all the wonderful memories UBC created for me, all the people that made it so memorable, the years of my life that my dad always claims to be the best in one's lifetime.. Now I realize what he says is true!! Seriously, university is the best time of your life.. ENJOY IT WHILE YOU CAN!!!

Looking forward to summer, weather's turning nice and warm. Flowers are blooming, the smell of rain brings springtime here and shoos winter away! I have so many things I want to do in summer that I cannot even begin to list them all!! First summer in Vancouver, whooooo!!! Anticipating the hot summer days to come! :)

So much I want to say, but I'll stop here for now. Stay tuned for after-exam updates! I cannot believe I am graduating in A MONTH!!!!!! Cap and gown, here I come!!

Confidence for Tomorrow

I think I wanted to talk about this awhile ago, maybe for about a week already, but when I wanted to write here I forgot what I was supposed to write about, and when I remembered, I was too busy with schoolwork.

Now that I have time, here it goes:

In my sociolinguistics class on Monday, we were watching a video where Daniel Everett was speaking about the Pirahã people. I had never heard of them but that's not the main point of this entry. It was certainly a very interesting video but something he said at the end struck me.

He quoted a line from the Bible which I found out was from Matthews 6:34 - "Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own."

He phrased it in a very sensible way and what I got from it was:

Take care of today, and tomorrow will take care of itself.. This is not short-term thinking; this is long-term thinking with confidence ...

It is true. Why do we worry so much about the future when we don't even spend time thinking about what we should be doing today to make a better tomorrow?

Whether we are talking about saving the Earth or referring to our daily lives, be it as simple as finishing a task today or as complex as planning our career lives ahead of us, TODAY is what matters. If you don't concentrate on doing what you should focus on right this moment, how can you be sure that things later on will turn out the way you want them to?

It is the way he says "long-term thinking with confidence" was what really got me. I am not a person with much self-confidence, so this was really a booster to my short-term thinking, giving me more positive support that we should really live life to the fullest and treasure everything we have. I think my blog is really sounding repetitive with all these sentences in ever other post, but I'm seeing life in a whole new perspective from what I did a few years ago.

People don't change, life does. It's the people around us who makes us who we are, and we don't change by ourselves. We change BECAUSE life brings us so many different things that make us stronger or weaker, and it is up to us to adapt to that, to stand ourselves up or be defeated.

I don't know where I'm going with this point, but I definitely have more thoughts on it. I'm sure many people these days are too wrapped up in our hectic society to spare some time to give these things a thought. If you don't agree with me, it's entirely up to you. It's just my two cents worth, so have a thought yourself and please share them with me!

Simple Things ♥ ~~

Have been so busy to blog!!! I have one ECON paper to research and write, one ECON assignment to pull my hair out on (from all the annoying equations), one Italian quiz coming up, one ENGL group presentation today (which I spent not much time but a lot of brainpower on), and one ENGL final project (paper-like..), and a LING final exam in 2 weeks!!! Suddenly crushed by an avalanche of schoolwork..

But nevertheless, I just want to say one thing today:

能够为男朋友准备爱心便当其实是一件非常幸福的事 :)

♥ 幸福就是那么的简单~~

HYPER

Back to work, at the Paralympics!!!

I feel so happy now, even though my fingers on both hands are numb from opening beer cans all night.

Working feels so great, to see everyone in such great excitement, radiant smiles, Canada flags waving all around and tattooed on faces..

It's truly a once in a lifetime experience! Same goes for the Olympics as well, of course!

GO CANADA GO!

Happiness

It's not actually that I don't think much. I do think a lot sometimes, and most of the time I'm just too afraid to let my thoughts run wild.

What matters most is the present, the gift of today. We should embrace every day, rain or shine, with open arms and an open heart.

Ask yourself just one thing: are you happy TODAY?

Today 今天~

I am happy to put down the past, cherish the present, and look forward to the future.

~ 放下过去. 珍惜此刻. 迎接未来. ~

From 梦幻情侣...

罗桑实: 找不到手机..
张哲秀: 为了不丢了你给买的手机, 这么快丢了, 往后要怎么找你啊?
罗桑实: 今天不也找到了吗? 那么神奇, 这能找到, 好像比花顺还厉害..
张哲秀: 谁找了? 只是路过偶然看见了..
罗桑实: 是吗?　那么我走得远远的话, 就不会看见了我了吧.. 等我找回了记忆, 也回到以前的我时, 我要去很远的地方.. 如果在很远的地方, 就不会偶然被你看见而再次见面了.. 到了那里, 张哲秀, 就可以与你了断了..
张哲秀: 回去找你哟.. 不管在那里, 不管有多远, 我都回去找你的...

Stand By Me

Shayne Ward - Stand By Me

Nothing's impossible,
Nothing's unreachable
When I am weary,
you make me stronger
This love is beautiful,
so unforgettable
I feel no winter cold,
when we're together
When we're together..

Will you stand by me,
Hold on and never let me go
Will you stand by me
With you I know I'll belong,
When the story gets told

When day turns into night,
I look into your eyes
I see my future now,
All the world in its wonder
This love won't fade away,
And through the hardest days
I'll never question us,
You are the reason
My only reason..

Will you stand by me,
Hold on and never let me go
Will you stand by me
With you I know I'll belong,
when the story gets told

I am blessed to find what I need
In a world losing hope you're my only belief
You make things right,
Every time after time..

Will you stand by me,
Hold on and never let me go
Will you stand stand by me
Will I be a part of your life,
When the story gets told

Stand by me, stand by me,
Won't you stand..
Stand by me,
Stand by me

i will always stand by you no matter what : ) we will both stay strong together!

14 is the MAGIC number...

14 Gold Medals for Canada in the Vancouver 2010 Olympics...

It has been simply the most amazing 14 days of my entire life...

Three words...

Celine Dion - I Love You

I must be crazy now
Maybe I dream too much
But when I think of you
I long to feel your touch

To whisper in your ear
Words that are old as time
Words only you would hear
If only you were mine

I wish I could go back to the very first day I saw you
Should've made my move when you looked in my eyes
'Cause by now I know that you'd feel the way that I do
And I'd whisper these words as you'd lie here by my side

I love you, please say
You love me too, these three words
They could change our lives forever
And I promise you that we will always be together
Till the end of time

So today, I finally find the courage deep inside
Just to walk right up to your door
But my body can't move when I finally get to it
Just like a thousand times before

Then without a word he handed me this letter
Read I hope this finds the way into your heart, it said

I love you, please say
You love me too, these three words
They could change our lives forever
And I promise you that we will always be together
Till the end of time

Well maybe I, I need a little love yeah
And maybe I, I need a little care
And maybe I, maybe you, maybe you, maybe you
Oh you need somebody just to hold you
If you do, just reach out and I'll be there

I love you, please say
You love me too
Please say you love me too
Till the end of time
These three words
They could change our lives forever
And I promise you that we will always be together

Oh, I love you
Please say you love me too
Please please
Say you love me too
Till the end of time
My baby
Together, together, forever
Till the end of time
I love you
I will be your light
Shining bright
Shining through your eyes
My baby

"Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take but by the moments that take our breath away."

Author: Unknown

To: My Olympic Valentine

You are the sunshine in my life; you brighten every single moment when I'm with you.

When I'm not with you, the sun refuses to shine and the rain comes down, making everything gloomy. Today proved just that.

During this Winter Olympics, I've had so much fun. During this past 2 weeks, I have felt the adrenaline and happiness that athletes feel when they are competing in their sport. But I'm sure, we don't need to compete against anyone, because we are both winners already.

Because YOU have won the gold medal of my love. And I have won yours. That's more than anyone can ask for :)

最美丽的第七天

Thank you for everything.

The best thing about waking up from a dream, is to realize that it wasn't a dream to begin with.

: )

STRESS STRESS STRESS!!!!

*cries*

AHHHHHH!!!

So many stuff to deal with!!!

- Need to get a phone plan because people are calling me and talking for 10-20 minutes each time so my phone credit's down to less than $20, about time for me to get a proper plan!!

- Need to look into and try go get a US visa so I can travel with my aunt in May, but the silly consulate is closed during Olympics?!

- Need to study for 2 midterms, both of which are on THURSDAY and are ECON!!! That's enough to freak me out already.. That means I gotta start studying!!

- Need to read a very long 30+ pages of a journal article for presentation on Monday. I don't understand; if we are spliting up the work, why should we have to READ the whole article instead of everyone skimming through it and focusing on their parts? I hope I don't have to spend too much time on this :)

- Need to go for Olympics training at some point in time, which I'm guessing would be during the weekend, which is not a problem except it's gonna eat away my studying time!!

Whatever it is, it will be a super jam-packed 2 weeks!!!

Totally Random

It suddenly hit me, that all my favourite figure skaters are going to be in Vancouver for the Olympics!!!

Evan Lysacek (USA), Brian Joubert (France), Stephane Lambiel (Switzerland).... OOOOOH!!! :D

Sadly, Jeffrey Buttle is NOT going to compete anymore... SO SADDDD!!!

And why don't they have the figure skating events at UBC? \-.-/

11 days to go!!!! Getting so pumped!!! :)

Wonderful Day

SO SO SO SO SO tempted to bake banana muffins right now!! Found a great recipe which looks so simple.. Okay, most muffin recipes are simple.. This one calls for 2 eggs instead of the usual 1, so maybe it will turn out more rich? I can't wait to try it!!!!!

Sadly, I have to do homework.... I better get through most of it now and so I can ask residual questions tomorrow.. Muffins have to wait...

On the bright side, what a great Vancouver mini adventure it was today!!! Collecting Olympic passes, looking at downtown Olympic decorations, riding on the Olympic Line streetcar, landing up on Granville Island~~~ :D

♥ Beautiful Vancouver ♥

Cinema Paradiso (se)

Cinema Paradiso (se)
Josh Groban

Italiano:

Se tu fossi nei miei occhi per un giorno
Vedresti la bellezza che piena d`allegria
Io trovo dentro gli occhi tuoi
E nearo se magia o lealta

Se tu fossi nel mio cuore per un giorno
Potreste avere un`idea
Di cio che sento io
Quando m`abbracci forte a te
E petto a petto, noi
Respiriamo insieme

Protagonista del tuo amor
Non so se sia magia o lealta

Se tu fossi nella mia anima un giorno
Sapresti cosa sono in me
Che m`innamorai
Da quell`istante insieme a te
E cio che provo e
Solamente amore


English:

If you were in my eyes for one day
You could see the full beauty of the joy
I find in your eyes
And it isnt magic or loyalty

If you were in my heart for a day
You would have an idea
Of what I feel
When you hold me strongly to you
Heart to heart,
Breathing together

Protagonist of your love
I dont know if it's magic or loyalty

If you were in my soul for a day
You would know what is inside me
That I fell in love
At that instant, together with you
And what I sense
Its only love.



I wanna watch the movie and see what it is like! :)

Another great Italian song~~~

Josh Groban - Gira Con Me

Italiano

Il mondo gira con me questa notte
Piccoli passi che faccio con te
Seguo il tuo cuore e seguo la luna
Cosi' nascosta lontana da me

Il mondo gira con noi questa notte
Ah esistesse lontano da qui
Un posto dove scoprire il mio cuore
Sapere se lui puo' amare o no

E girera e girera
il cuore mio assieme a te
E girera il mondo girera
La mia vita e un giorno lui si s capira

Sei tu che giri con me questa notte
Sei tu che giri lontana da qui
Ma si io so che tu sei la mia luna
qualcosa mostri qualcosa no

Ci sono strade azzurre nel cielo
Ci sono occhi e il cielo e gia li
Si questo credo che siano le stelle
Ah se potessi fermarmi cosi

E girera e girera
il cuore mio lontan da te
E girera il mondo girera
Questa notte e un giorno lui si s capira

Cuore e gia lontano
Si tu sei la luna
Potessi scoprirlo nel cielo

E girera e girera si girera il cuore mio
Girera il mondo girera la mia vita
Un giorno lui si si capira
Un giorno lui si si capira

English

The world wanders with me tonight
Little steps I take with you
I follow your heart and I follow the moon
So hidden far away from me
The world wanders with us tonight

Ahhhhh if only far away from here existed
A place where to discover my heart
To know if it can love you or not

And it will wander and it will wander
This heart of mine along with you
And the earth will wander
My life will wander and yes yes one day it will understand

It's you who wanders with me tonight
It's you who wanders far from here
But yes I know that you are my moon
Something you show, something you don't

There are blue roads in the sky
There are eyes, and the sky is already there
Yes, I think this is the stars
Ahh, if I could stop like this

And it will wander, and it will wander
My heart far from you
And the earth will wander
My life will wander and one day yes, yes it will understand

Heart already far away
Yes you are the moon
If only i could discover it in the sky

And it will wander, and it will wander
Yes it will wander this heart of mine
And the earth will wander, my life will wander
And one day yes it will understand
And one day yes it will understand you

Cool Hwhip!

Stewie: Ooh, let me have some of that Cool Hwhip.
Brian: What'd you say?
Stewie: You can't have a pie without Cool Hwhip.
Brian: Cool Hwhip?
Stewie: Cool Hwhip, yeah.
Brian: You mean Cool Whip.
Stewie: Yeah, Cool Hwhip.
Brian: Cool Whip.
Stewie: Cool Hwhip.
Brian: Cool Whip.
Stewie: Cool Hwhip.
Brian: You're saying it weird. Why are you putting so much emphasis on the H?
Stewie: What are you talking about? I'm just saying it. Cool Hwhip. You put Cool Hwhip on pie. Pie tastes better with Cool Hwhip.
Brian: Say whip.
Stewie: Whip.
Brian: Now say Cool Whip.
Stewie: Cool Hwhip.
Brian: Cool Whip.
Stewie: Cool Hwhip.
Brian: Cool Whip.
Stewie: Cool Hwhip.

-- Family Guy, episode "Barely Legal"

I'll Miss You

Mi Mancherai - Josh Groban

Mi mancherai se te ne vai
Mi mancherà la tua serenità
Le tue parole come canzoni al vento
E l'amore che ora porti via

Mi mancherai se te ne vai
Ora per sempre non so come vivere
E l'allegria, amica mia, va via con te

Mi mancherai, mi mancherai, perchè vai via
Perchè l'amore in te si è spento
Perchè, perchè...
Non cambierà niente lo so
E dentro sento te

Mi mancherai, mi mancherai, perchè vai via
Perchè l'amore in te si è spento
Perchè, perchè...
Non cambierà niente lo so
E dentro sento te

Mi mancherà l'immensità
Dei nostri giorni e notti insieme noi
I tuoi sorrisi quando si fa buio
La tua ingenuità da bambina, tu...

Mi mancherai amore mio
Mi guardo e trovo un vuoto dentro me
E l'allegria, amica mia, va via con te

Every time I hear this I feel like crying.. Josh Groban does such a good job.. Makes me all emo and teary-eyed... So much emotion in this song..

MY GOSH! I'm 22!!!!!!!

Think think think...

It's a very interesting natural phenomena. I extend this on my roommate's theory: "When we have labels, we have expectations."

This is very true, especially when we are talking about people. I find myself doing that sometimes.. Maybe that's why things didn't work out a few years ago... And I knew that's why.. And so..

During these last few years, I have been trying to live by having no expectations, so that I won't be faced with disappointments. Sometimes it works, but maybe these days it is slipping away.

How about the quote about shooting for the moon? It says if you miss, you'll still land among the stars... That's making a goal, just a fine line away from having expectations... A goal is what motivates you to push yourself..

And to add another variable to the equation, how about wishes? You wish for something, which you want to happen. But is it going to come true? Like making a birthday wish, or wishing on a star... There's no certainty nor control over what will happen... What about hopes? You hope for something, like good weather, but it is unlikely that you can do anything about it...

So what exactly marks the minor differences among hopes, wishes, goals and expectations??? How do you know that you are making a goal and not setting expectations? I really want to know the answer...

Italiano!

Ciao!

Italiano it is!

Lots of work... I hope I can make it!!!

I wish I can watch all of Giada's episodes again..

And everyone says Italian is a romantic language.. Is it? I didn't know that, nor have I realized it yet.. Ask me again in a month or two probably??

Buona notte!

Some thoughts running through my mind...

I have just realized..

It's not about believing or not, it's about choosing what to believe.

I realized something has changed. It's no longer what it used to be. Is that a good thing? Maybe things are changing; life is changing us.

I don't know.